SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aplus-lithium-battery-disposal

What is the right way to dispose of a worn-out lithium-ion laptop battery?

Take it to a recycling or hazardous waste collection point.

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  1. Put it in the regular trash
  2. Take it to a battery recycler or hazardous waste site ✔
  3. Put it in the curbside recycling bin

Why: Lithium-ion batteries can start fires, so they never belong in household garbage or recycling bins. Tape the terminals or bag them separately.

Huh, didn't know that: The EPA suggests taping battery terminals or placing batteries in separate plastic bags.

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References

Answer: Take it to a battery recycler or hazardous waste site. Lithium-ion batteries can start fires, so they never belong in household garbage or recycling bins. Tape the terminals or bag them separately.

  1. Used household batteries, US EPA www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries
    Waste batteries can always be recycled or taken to household hazardous waste collection points
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Used household batteries, US EPA www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries
    never put these batteries in household garbage or recycling bins
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Used household batteries, US EPA www.epa.gov/recycle/used-household-batteries
    tape battery terminals and/or place batteries in separate plastic bags
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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